My view of the world through a lens

birds

This wonderful wetland park, in the middle of Surrey, has a lot to offer the urban explorer who appreciates green space. The centerpiece of this park is, of course, the lake for which it is named.

Dogs are also frequent visitors to the park (though owners are asked to keep them out of the water due to the sensitive marine habitat).

Surrounding the lake is a well-groomed trail. The strategically placed benches welcome visitors to sit and stay awhile. Be warned though! At the north end of the park it pays to stay alert for stray golf balls from the neighbouring golf course. Fore!

As you make your way past the lake, you come to a decision point. Should you go left or should you go right? Well, you can’t go wrong with your choice as this is the entrance to a 1.5km loop. About 1/3 of the loop takes you through an open grassland area. You’re advised to look skyward during this part of the trail as you are likely to see more of the birds who call the park home.

There are also many interesting things to see closer to the ground. The flowers found along the edge of the path appear to be unintentional; perhaps transplanted by the bees who work here.

The other part of the trail leads through a forested space which is a welcome relief on a hot, sunny day.

I have a fascination with birds and am always on the lookout for places they are known to congregate. The Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve is just such a place. Although we didn’t time our recent visit during the best viewing season, we still managed to spot a few of these long-legged beauties.

Even if you aren’t interested in birds (which I find hard to imagine!), perhaps you will enjoy taking a stroll along one, or more, of the walking loops located throughout the Reserve.

The Tower Trail boasts … wait for it … a tower! If you aren’t afraid of heights it is worth the short trip up to the top. In addition to being a great vantage point to take in the surrounding landscape, there are several interpretive signs that make for an interesting read.

It pays to take your time as you wander down the cottonwood tree-lined trails – there are many tiny treasures to take in.

I am really not sure when my fascination with birds started but, when I look through my photos, it is clear that I have an obsession. The funny this is that I wouldn’t call myself a “birder”. I can’t tell you their names, the sounds they make or what their breeding habits are. All I know is that I can’t get enough of them.